Social Class, Conflict and Unequal Development in Spanish Galicia

Abstract

Social class relationships in Spanish Galicia are viewed in the light of the region's long history of exploitation first by the Church and later by inter ests in areas of Spain with long traditions in commerce and industry. Extensive networks of interpersonal relationships between rural parishes and among mi grants to Latin America and Central Europe as well as a common language and cultural heritage have led to strong ethnic identification. In contrast marginali zation, small-scale farming, the absence of agricultural wage labor, and strong rural-urban ties including interclass kin ties have prevented the formation of a strong class consciousness. Recent political developments reveal both the con straints these factors place upon concerted action and incipient opportunities for socio-political change.